Ministry to Deep-Pocket Donors
Wayne Pohl
Just as people with the gifts of mercy, music, or leadership need cultivation and sometimes a challenge, so do those with the gift of giving.
—Wayne Pohl In the early stages of a building-fund drive, I asked my secretary to schedule a lunch appointment for me with a church member who had given generously in the past. Three weeks later when we sat together at a local restaurant, I noticed he held in his hand a bundle of envelopes. He fanned them out on the table and said, "I know why you asked me out to lunch. I hope it's important because lots of requests are coming across my desk." Pointing to the envelopes he said, "These are the appeals I've received since your secretary called." Competition for the donations of deep-pocket donors is at an all-time high. Ours is a needy world, and thankfully more and more parachurch groups and charities are trying to do something about it. And they have sophisticated fund-raising tools at their disposal: direct mail, telemarketing, telethons and television ads, magazine advertising, radio appeals, candy sales. Unfortunately many Christians, awash in appeals, are on the defensive, especially deep-pocket donors. How is a pastor supposed to feel about joining the long line at their door? When we get inside, how can we appeal for donations in a way that is both honorable and effective? For me, it begins with perspective. Deep-Pocket Donors Are a Spiritual Gift
When I look at someone whom God has blessed financially, I don't see a dollar sign, a blank check, a venture capitalist, a bankroll, a cash pipeline. I see the spiritual gift of giving, as mentioned in Romans 12. I have noticed that these individuals themselves usually see their wealth in the same light. Frequently I hear statements like this: ...
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